While slow mobility or active mobility are the most affordable forms of mobility, it is a lifestyle that many tropical metropolises in Asia have neglected in their urban-scale planning with the increase of private vehicle usage*. As more issues of urban fragmentation and traffic congestions intensify over time, some cities are starting to acknowledge that urban environments should stop optimising for vehicular traffic – and instead be intentionally designed for people*.
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In our book “Well-being for All: A Holistic Framework for Tropical Cities”, we believe that this idea of a human-centred city, rather than a car-centric city, has a vast positive impact on many aspects of city life. When active mobility infrastructures, such as walking paths, cycling and riding lanes, are made accessible alongside public transportation, it helps to reduce the sense of isolation associated with private commuting. Additionally, it reduces time in traffic and transport-related emissions.
Singapore’s Islandwide Cycling Network Programme (ICN) plans to expand the cycling path network to around 1300km islandwide by 2030, connecting HDB residents to transport nodes, amenities, schools and even other HDB towns*. Moreover, dedicated paths and intersections for slow mobility can help to improve safety, reduce commuting times by foot or bike, and encourage people to go car-lite. This strongly influences the viability of slow mobility.
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Pedestrianised streets in the city help to invite a slower pace of urban life. It provides opportunities for people to slow down and engage with the surroundings – whether to support local businesses, interact with neighbours, appreciate the sights and smells of nature in the city, or to just take a mental and physical break from the urban rush of city life. For example, open public hubs for performative arts along pedestrian-prioritised commuter trails or integrating F&B pop-ups along sidewalks, create a multidimensional vibrancy that would otherwise be hard to cultivate and achieve in a fast-paced, car-centric grid.
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An example would be the Urban Ventures pop-up placemaking event at Keong Saik Road in Singapore. By temporarily reclaiming vehicular lands and street-side parking infrastructure, the event transformed the roads into a lively pedestrian-only place. The street hosted a range of outdoor programmes that included fitness classes, interactive workshops, market stalls, live art and roving performances*.
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When cities are designed around people’s needs, they can foster a strong sense of place and belonging. By integrating more slow mobility networks and active corridors, the built environment can assits to bolster physical health, nuture mental wellness, and increase the social capital of the city. Hence, creating vibrancy in cities that bring collective joy and community Well-being for All.
